Question

Sarah is a veteran of the Iraq war who suffered three serious blast-related concussions. Her primary TBI symptoms are frequent headaches, irritability, and light sensitivity. She also has symptoms of PTSD, including flashbacks and an exaggerated startle response. She reports having difficulty managing her anger and difficulty distinguishing between rude people and potentially threatening people. Answer the following questions: How might these challenges make Sarah more likely to break the law? How might these challenges make Sarah more likely to be victimized? What services might help Sarah avoid involvement with the criminal justice system?

Answer 1

How might these challenges make Sarah more likely to break the law?

Because Sarah is psychologically unstable, and she is described as being unable to distinguish between rude people and potentially threatening people, she could easily become an aggressor to people that do not really pose any threat. This would make her break the law.

How might these challenges make Sarah more likely to be victimized?

The mere fact that she came back form war with serious psychological trauma makes her a victim.

What services might help Sarah avoid involvement with the criminal justice system?

Therapy with a psychologist, or medical help from a psychiatrist are the best services that Sarah could turn to in order to avoid committing crimes.